TMZ.com confirms Randy Jackson leaving American Idol

This is an archived article and the information in the article may be outdated. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated.

TMZ.com has confirmed American Idol judge Randy Jackson is leaving the judge’s table, but will remain on the show as a mentor.

TMZ.com says sources connected to “Idol” say there’s some concern among the brass that Jackson is not well-suited for the mentor role, but they feel they need him because he’s the glue that helps keep the show together.

As for his replacement, sources tell TMZ.com Nicki Minaj’s deal is 99% done, but still not a sure thing just yet.

TMZ.com also reports American Idol will once again go with a fourth judge. Producers are reportedly hoping for someone from the country music world for the third seat, and seat four remains up in the air.